Marlys Mae Breidel

Marlys Mae Breidel, 86, of Stewartville, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loving family.

Marlys Mae Kirkland was born on April 11, 1940, in Rock Dell Township, MN to Burton “Bert” and Fern (Schuck) Kirkland. She grew up on the family farm and attended country school.

On April 21, 1966, Marlys married James Robert “Jim” Breidel Sr. Together they made their home in Onalaska, Wisconsin, until Jim’s passing in 1993. Marlys worked for many years as a cake decorator at Festival Foods in Onalaska. She took great pride in her work and continued working until her retirement in 2020. In 2023, Marlys moved to Stewartville, Minnesota, where she made her home and was able to spend more time surrounded by family.

Marlys enjoyed the simple things in life. She loved watching her favorite television shows, especially murder mysteries, comedies, baking shows, and the old classics. She also loved reading and coloring with her great-grandchildren. Marlys had a special talent for baking and decorating cakes and made the best peanut brittle, bringing sweetness and joy to her family throughout the years.

More than anything, Marlys loved her family. She treasured time spent with her siblings, nieces and nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and her great great grandchild. Her family brought her tremendous joy, and the time spent together created memories that will continue to be cherished.

Marlys was able to spend her final days at home, surrounded by the people who loved her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those fortunate enough to call her Grandma, sister, aunt, and friend.

Marlys is survived by her siblings, Joyce (Jerry) Banks, Shirley (Dave) Schumacher, Marlene (Andy) Holmstadt, Clayton (Jodel) Kirkland, and Duane (Sharon) Kirkland, along with her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other loving family members. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James “Jim” Breidel; her parents, Burton “Bert” and Fern Kirkland; her sister, Lois (Carl) Mork; and her stepson, Jamie Breidel.

In keeping with Marlys’ wishes, no funeral service or visitation will be held at this time. A Celebration of Life will take place at the American Legion Post 64 in Stewartville,MN on Saturday (November 8, 2026) from 2 to 5:00 PM. Allowing family and friends to gather, share memories, and celebrate the life she lived and the love she leaves behind. Arrangements are being handled by Griffin-Gray Funeral Home in Stewartville. Condolences and memories of Marlys are welcome at www.griffin-gray.com

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